Power Trendsetter: Kangana Ranaut

Text by Zaral Shah. Photograph by Prasad Naik. Outfit and Accesories from Dior

For bagging the second consecutive National Film Award and standing tall in the face of controversies

Photograph by Prasad Naik. Outfit and Accesories from Dior

Having been in the news for both her professional and personal lives, Kangana Ranaut is one who doesn’t shy away from attention. Be it her alleged involvement with a Bollywood hunk or the various honours showered upon her by critics and audiences alike, the diva and former Verve cover girl exudes power with every step.

On self-acceptance: ‘It’s very important for girls to value themselves, know and understand their rights and power. I wanted to explore where a girl’s power comes from. A lot of it stems from self-acceptance. You have to accept yourself with all the flaws…. That is the first step to having your inner strength. For, if you do not accept yourself how will you expect the world to accept you?’

On being a style icon: ‘I don’t know about being one, but I admire what I wear. My clothes have a strong personality and speak of someone who is self-made, who doesn’t buy dresses just for the sake of it or to prove a point. I think what comes across is a woman who’s got her points of view and who’s made her way to where she is. And that contributes to my style.’

On fashion: ‘To me, it is a form of expression, like art. It’s an expression of your individuality, your attitude. When you’re trying to be fashionable, don’t follow anyone. Develop your own expression.’